Molybdeum

What is Molybdenum?

Molybdenum is a trace mineral found in most plant and animal tissues. Molybdenum is an essential cofactor for many of the enzymes involved in protein synthesis and the mobilization or iron use in the body. It is essential in animal and human nutrition.

Molybdenum helps with metabolism of fats and carbohydrates. It plays an important role in the enzyme process for the use of iron in the body, by mobilizing iron from the liver reserves. Molybdenum is absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and excreted in the urine. It helps prevent anaemia and enhance general feeling of well-being.

Some of the benefits and uses of Molybdenum as a dietary supplement include:

• Molybdenum acts as a necessary coenzyme required for alcohol detoxification, known as aldehyde oxidase.
• Low molybdenum levels may lead to increased allergic reactions to sulphites, 
• It has been shown that molybdenum and fluoride added to drinking water may be more effective than fluoride alone in preventing tooth decay.
• It also helps to prevent anaemia. 
• It promotes the sense of well-being. 
• May protect against stomach and oesophagus cancers. 
• Aids in the metabolisation of fats and carbohydrates.
  

Inadequate intake of molybdenum may lead to premature aging and impotence in older men. Deficiency of the molybdenum cofactor also causes a severe disease in humans that usually results in premature death in early childhood and is inherited as an autosomal recessive trait.

Some natural sources of molybdenum are Meats, whole grains, buckwheat, barley, wheat germ, legumes, lima beans, canned beans and lentils, sunflower seeds, and dark green leafy vegetables.

Side Effects and Warnings of Molybdenum

Toxicity when using Molybdenum is rare, but symptoms produced may include stiffness and swelling of the joints, stunted bone growth, diarrhoea and anaemia.

High intake of molybdenum is antagonistic to copper and can produce a condition in animals known as molybdenosis.

To avoid these or other side effects you should consult your doctor before using Molybdenum or any other dietary supplements.

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